Ko wai mātou | Who we are

Koi te mata punenga, maiangi te mata pūihoiho

Our vision is to be a world recognised Kaupapa Māori Institute that contributes to Māori and Indigenous aspirations through transformative research excellence.

Te Kotahi Research Institute (TKRI) is the unified vision of Te Rōpū Manukura, a unique advisory body representing all iwi (tribes) within the University’s region. The Institute draws inspiration from Sir Robert Te Kotahi Mahuta, the founding Director of the Centre of Māori Studies Research established in the 1970s at the University of Waikato. The centre was the first of its kind which over ensuing years helped generate a wealth of research for and about Māori that crosses into every faculty of the University. We share Sir Robert’s vision to generate resources to settle Raupatu (land confiscations), create momentum for tribal development for the future benefit of the nation, and support all Faculties to engage in research excellence.

The establishment of Te Kotahi provides a strong foundation for engagement in research that contributes to enhancing well-being for Iwi, Māori, Indigenous communities and society. The Institute further supports the work of the Pro Vice-Chancellor Māori to sustain relationships and develop the research capacity amongst staff and students while realising the research needs and aspirations of iwi.

Te Kotahi promotes and encourages the connection between scholars across disciplines to undertake research. This acknowledges the diverse nature of Māori and Indigenous research and is the strong basis in Kaupapa Māori research requiring collaboration with iwi, Māori, and community. Our name ‘Te Kotahi’ reflects a unity of purpose, drawing together concepts of oneness and togetherness.

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